KSA's

Knowledge, Skills & Attributes

#1 - How contextual variables affect teaching and learning

Through my substantial time spent in practicum, I have learned how to read my students extremely well. By building relationships with my students and getting to know them from day one, it has given me the tools to know when to further push and ask more of my students, as well as when to acknowledge when something may not be working. One of my professional growth plan goals for PS111 was to provide students with meaningful and frequent brain breaks. We have discussed the importance of allowing our minds to take a break while getting our heart rates up. Because I am a Physical Education major, I recognize the importance of movement within the classroom.

#2 - The structure of the Alberta Education System

I have learned about the structure of the Alberta Education System through research, as well as valuable discussions with mentor teachers as well as administrators. I am constantly asking questions about my role as a teacher, and what the expectations of me are. Through the ATA website, I have become familiarized in a more detailed sense of my responsibilities as a teacher. .

#3 - The purposes of the Guide to Education and programs of study for subject disciplines you teach

Throughout my three practicums, I have become extremely familiar with the programs of study regarding all ages. More specifically, I am especially comfortable with my area of study; Physical Education. The programs of study inform every lesson I teach. More often than not, I am pulling outcomes from various programs of study to teach cross-curricularly. I believe that teaching cross-curricularly gives students many opportunities to make sense of their learning in a variety of settings; it helps them explore concepts in different environments, which makes learning more meaningful to the students.

#4 - Subject disciplines you teach

Through the University of Lethbridge, I have acquired a combined degree with a major in Kinesiology as well as a major in Physical Education. I have become extremely familiar with the Physical Education program of study, and have had a lot of experience in this field of study.

#5 - All students can learn albeit at different rates and in different ways

Throughout my teaching practicums, I have been blessed with diverse classes full of students with varying needs. Although at times it was a challenge, it has only pushed me to become a better teacher. The diversity within my classes forced me to continually reflect, adapt, modify and alter how I taught my students. Whether it was creating spaces where students could better work, or learning basic sign language to better communicate with my deaf students, my teaching has only improved. No two students are the same, just as no two classes are the same. This is why teaching is a constant and continual learning profession.

#6 - The purpose of short, medium, and long range planning

Short, medium, and long range plans are what make teaching run as smoothly as possible. I believe that through great planning, teaching can become more enjoyable and engaging for both students and teachers.By starting off by building a year plan, it allows the teacher to see what outcomes must be taught, as well as the order they should/could be taught. Medium range planning allows for teachers to be more specific in the time allotted to cover specific outcomes, as well as the way in which the lessons are presented to the students. This is where a teacher can begin to build a unit that is unique, engaging, hands on, and full of meaningful and purposeful activities. Short range planning is where lessons become more refined. Detailed lesson plans provide teachers with specific questions, and discussion points and activities that cover specific learning outcomes. To view my planning, look at my PS111 Unit plans.

I acknowledge the importance of starting the year off by setting up classroom rules and expectations. By creating an environment where students know what is expected of them, they are more likely to succeed in their learning. It also provides a more comfortable and predictable environment for students who have anxiety. During PS111 my teacher mentor and I spent the first three days of school establishing routines, and expectations. This has allowed for students to become independent in their day to day tasks.

#8 - Importance of respecting students' human dignity

This KSA is heavily related to my teaching philosophy. Throughout my teaching practicums, I have learned the importance of respecting students, and building positive relationships with them. I believe that if students aren't comfortable with their teacher, they are less likely to succeed and to reach their full potential. I believe that it is a teachers main job to build healthy relationships with their students, and in return, the students will be more willing to make mistakes, and push themselves. To read more about my belief in this KSA, read my teaching philosophy.

#9 - There are many approaches to teaching and learning

This KSA is demonstrated in my Unit plans, as well as my Lesson plans.

#10 - The functions of traditional and electronic teaching/learning technologies

Technology is one of the most effective and engaging teaching tools that I use on a daily basis in my class. Whether it be doing a "just dance" brain break on YouTube, or watching a read aloud online, technology enhances each area of the day. I am constantly using it as a music source, an introduction to a lesson, or a review of a concept. I believe technology can substantially impact my teaching abilities, as long as I continually keep-up with emerging resources.

#11 - The purposes of student assessment

By completing my practicums in different grades and subject areas, I have been exposed to a large variety of assessment tools both formatively and summatively. I have learned the value of deep and meaningful discussion as a way to formatively assess my students, and I also recognize the importance of providing many opportunities for students to demonstrate their knowledge in a variety of ways. Student assessments allow me to see where students are at in their learning journey, while also providing me the chance to see how I can better improve my teaching.

#12 - The importance of engaging parents, purposefully, in all aspects of teaching and learning

Getting to know my students and their parents is one of my favourite parts about teaching. During my PS111 practicum I was fortunate enough to be involved in a "Meet the Teacher" night as well as a School Fiesta, which included. a school blessing. I have also been blessed by being able to meet parents through opportunities such as our Christian action assemblies, as well as when our principal received a Blackfoot name.

#13 - Student learning is enhanced through the use of resources

Creating opportunities for meaningful and relevant community resources can enhance learning for students. Inviting guests in to speak to students can create excitement for learning, as well as exploring new environments. I have had the opportunity to have story tellers, Indigenous speakers as well as religious leaders into our classes. Creating these community connections allows students to see how they fit in their communities not only in school, but outside the class as well.

#14 - The importance of contributing, independently and collegially, to the quality of your school

​I believe that contributing to the quality of a school is key element to the teaching profession, although it is often underestimated. I believe that building positive and healthy relations with all staff members is crucial to creating an inclusive and positive teaching environment. During my PSIII practicum I became extremely involved with my school community. I taught Zumba for free once a week to staff members, helped coach the grade 5/6 volleyball teams, and lead the grade 1/2's and pre-K through their Christmas concert production.

#15 - The importance of career-long learning

Teaching is an ongoing, moving profession. It should never be stagnant, and teachers' should always be seeking new ways and methods to better help teach their students. I am constantly and continually reflecting on lessons I have taught, to better improve my practice as well as the success of my students. I am always looking for constructive feedback from administrators, teacher mentors, as well as educational assistants. I believe in collaborative teaching, as exchanging information, resources and ideas with other educators is invaluable. Although I continually reflect on my daily lessons, I constantly refer back to my summative reports that were completed in my previous practicums. Feel free to view of PS1 & PS11 evaluations.

#16 - The importance of guiding your actions with a personal, overall vision of the purpose of teaching